8 great beers: Pilsner, pale ale, porter and more

Richard Derk

This is the ideal backyard beer for summer (made on Maui, where they know all about sunny weather). It's a Munich helles-type lager, comfortable with many foods, particularly backyard favorites like grilled chicken or sausages. Price: $2 to $2.50 for a 12-ounce can or $11 to $12 for a six-pack MORE: Maui Brewing Bikini Blonde Lager

As an unfiltered brew, it pours hazy honey amber, with a moderate head. Serve with anything that would appreciate a dash of citrus, such as fried fish, Thai food or fruit salad. Price: $2 per 12-ounce bottle, $4 per 22-ounce bottle or $9 to $10 per six-pack MORE: Hangar 24 Orange Wheat

We've rounded up eight great beers, along with some recommended food pairings, from the L.A. Times' Beer of the Month column by Charles Perry. If you're looking to buy, call ahead to make sure these specialty brews are in stock.